Suspect in Hempstead slayings of 3 women denied bail

The man accused in the bludgeoning deaths of his mother, sister and a third woman was ordered held without bail following a court appearance Sunday.

Police say the suspect, 34-year-old Bobby Vanderhall, returned early Saturday morning to his family's home in Hempstead, where he had previously been kicked out. He allegedly used a hammer from the garage to break into the home, and then used the hammer to fatally bludgeon the three women. In court, officials said that he also used a knife to stab his mother.

A fourth woman in the home was also attacked, but managed to escape the home and call for help. She was hospitalized in stable condition.

The deceased have been identified as Lynn Reichenbach-Vanderhall, 58, who was the suspect's mother; 29-year-old Melissa Vanderhall, the suspect's sister; and 29-year-old Janel Simpson, who was staying at the home at the time, according to relatives.

Police say Vanderhall had a history of emotional problems. His mother had recently filed for an order of protection against him.

According to police, Vanderhall was found sleeping in a car within two miles of the crime scene and was arrested.

He is charged with three counts of second-degree murder and a charge of attempted second-degree murder.